Indian army foils 'infiltration bid' in Uri sector

SRINAGAR: The Indian army on Tuesday blocked an attempt by suspected militants to infiltrate India-held Kashmir (IHK), an Indian army spokesman said, days after a deadly raid on a military base in the territory.

“A group of 10-12 terrorists attempted to infiltrate the Uri sector. They were intercepted and the infiltration bid was foiled,” said Indian Army Spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia, referring to the same area where Sunday’s attack took place.

Earlier today, Indian and Pakistani troops allegedly exchanged fire across the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector, Indian army officials claimed.

However, Pakistani military sources denied any exchange of fire taking place across the LoC.

India blamed Sunday’s attack in which 18 soldiers died on Pakistan-based militants.

The attack which was the worst of its kind to hit the region in more than a decade increased hostility between the two neighbours as they gear up for a showdown at the United Nations General Assembly over held Kashmir.

Indian army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia, alleged that there had been a “ceasefire violation” near Uri, where Sunday’s attack took place, but gave no further details. Uri is near the LoC which divides the disputed territory.

“Small arms exchange of fire is on in the area,” a senior police officer told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Occasional violations of a 2003 ceasefire between Pakistan and India are not uncommon. Tuesday’s alleged exchange was the first since Sunday’s attack.